How to Start a Satellites’ Components and Spare Parts Trading Business with Meydan Free Zone

Introduction

The global satellite components market is one of the fastest-growing segments of the space economy, driven by the rapid proliferation of low Earth orbit constellations, expanding defence programmes, and an accelerating shift toward commercial satellite services. According to Mordor Intelligence¹, the satellite parts and components market is estimated at USD 40.66 billion in 2025 and is forecast to reach USD 68.05 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 8.97%.

The satellite manufacturing market is expanding even faster, valued at USD 22.5 billion in 2024 and projected to reach USD 57.2 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 16.1%, according to Grand View Research².

Communication systems account for the largest share of component demand at 40.4%, followed by propulsion hardware at 33.8% of the market by subsystem. Software components are the fastest-growing segment, advancing at a CAGR of 10.47%, while space observation applications are driving the highest growth by end use at 11.47% CAGR through 2031.

The UAE has positioned itself as a serious player in this global sector. According to Economy Middle East³, the UAE’s investments in the space sector have reached AED 40 billion (USD 10.9 billion) in recent years, underlining the country’s commitment to building a domestic space industry.

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) has developed and launched multiple satellites including DubaiSat-1, DubaiSat-2, KhalifaSat, and the MBZ-SAT earth observation satellite, establishing a track record of sovereign satellite capability.

The UAE Space Agency’s National Space Strategy 2030⁴, approved by the UAE Cabinet, sets a comprehensive framework for growing the space sector’s contribution to the national economy, attracting foreign investment, and fostering public and private sector collaboration. For traders in satellite components and spare parts, this combination of domestic demand from active satellite programmes, government-backed procurement, and the UAE’s role as a regional hub for space-related commercial activity creates a high-value, long-term business opportunity.

Market at a glance

4773 — Retail sale of other new goods in specialised stores

Activity code 4773.d9 falls within ISIC class 4773, which covers the retail sale of new goods across a range of specialised product categories. Within this class, sub-code 4773.d9 is specifically designated for Satellites’ Components and Spare Parts Trading — the retail sale of components, subsystems, and spare parts used in the manufacture, assembly, operation, and maintenance of satellites.

Businesses operating under this code are authorised to source and sell such products to end customers through a specialised commercial channel.

What this activity does not cover

Licensing and compliance

Who is this for?

Activity Details

Space technology traders Businesses seeking to source and supply satellite subsystems, electronic components, and spare parts to satellite operators, defence contractors, and research institutions across the UAE and the broader Middle East.

System integrators and resellersCompanies that procure satellite components for integration into larger systems or resell specialist parts to manufacturers, engineers, and government procurement bodies operating in the UAE's fast-growing space sector.

MRO and aftermarket suppliersTraders focused on maintenance, repair, and overhaul supply chains, stocking and distributing replacement and spare parts for existing satellite infrastructure operated by government, defence, and commercial entities.

Third-Party Approval

Anti-Money Laundering Compliance

References